RecipesBotswanaBotswana Beef and Bean Stew

Botswana Beef and Bean Stew

A hearty and flavorful stew combining tender beef, protein-rich beans, and aromatic vegetables, simmered in a savory broth. This dish is a staple during family gatherings and colder weather.

Prep Time25 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time1 hour 55 minutes
Servings6
DifficultyMedium
Botswana Beef and Bean Stew - Botswana traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 1 lb Beef stew meat(cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1 tablespoon Vegetable oil
  • 1 medium Onion(diced)
  • 1 medium Green bell pepper(diced)
  • 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
  • 2 medium Tomatoes(diced)
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
  • 2 cups Water
  • 1 15-ounce can Kidney beans(drained and rinsed)
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Ground coriander

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced beef and cook until browned on all sides.

  2. 2

    Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.

  3. 3

    Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.

  4. 4

    Add the water, salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin, and coriander. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.

    💡 Tip: Ensure all spices are well distributed.
  5. 5

    Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.

  6. 6

    Add the drained and rinsed kidney beans to the stew. Stir well and simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the beans are heated through and the stew has thickened.

  7. 7

    Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, traditionally with pap (cornmeal porridge).

    💡 Tip: This stew is also delicious served with rice.

💡 Pro Tips

  • For a richer flavor, you can use beef broth instead of water.
  • If using dried beans, soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the stew.
  • Add other vegetables like diced carrots or potatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.

🔄 Variations

  • Substitute lamb for beef.
  • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.

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